Say Goodbye to 67
Imagine planning your retirement around age 67, only to learn you’ll need to work longer. The UK government has signalled major shifts in the State Pension Age (SPA). With a new review underway, retiring at 67 could soon be history.
This isn’t just talk. Official plans already push the SPA to 67 by 2028, and whispers of an earlier rise to 68 are growing louder. For millions of workers, this means rethinking dreams of early golf or grandparent duties.
What’s the Current SPA?
Right now, the State Pension Age sits at 66 for most Brits. If you were born before 6 April 1960, you’re claiming at 66. This equalised men’s and women’s ages back in 2020.
But change is coming fast. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) oversees these rises to keep the pension system sustainable.
Upcoming Changes
The timeline is locked in, but the ongoing review could accelerate it. Here’s the official schedule:
- Starts 6 May 2026 for those born after 5 April 1960. Fully in place by April 2028.
- Planned for 2044-2046, affecting those born after 1978. But the 2025 review might bring this forward.
- The third review, launched in July 2025, examines life expectancy and costs. Decisions expected soon.
Check your exact date on the GOV.UK pension calculator. It’s quick and free.
Why the Increase?
People are living longer. Average life expectancy now tops 81, up from 70 in the 1950s. Pensions must stretch further.
The Triple Lock protects payments, but rising costs strain the Treasury. Without hikes, taxes or cuts loom.
The 2023 review ruled out speeding to 68 early, but 2025’s fresh look responds to post-pandemic shifts. Healthier retirees? Or inequality in later years?
Who Is Affected?
Not everyone feels the pinch equally. Key groups include:
- Mid-50s Workers: Born 1970-1978? Your SPA could jump to 68 sooner if the review greenlights it.
- Women in their 40s: Unequal impacts from caring roles and menopause hit harder.
- Manual Labourers: Physically demanding jobs make working to 68 tough. Unions like Unite cry “68 is too late.”
- Self-Employed: No employer pension, so State reliance grows.
Younger generations face the biggest shift. Gen Z might see SPA at 70.
Check Your SPA Now
Don’t guess. Head to GOV.UK’s State Pension forecast tool. Enter your National Insurance number for a personalised forecast.
It shows your exact claiming date and forecast amount. The full New State Pension is £230.25 weekly in 2025/26, rising with the Triple Lock.
Act early. Missing National Insurance years? Buy them back before the April 2025 deadline.
Health and Work Longer
Working past 67 demands planning. Stay fit with NHS checks from age 40.
Consider flexible jobs. Phased retirement lets you ease out while drawing private pensions from 55 (rising to 57 in 2028).
Government incentives like Mid-Life MOTs help spot skill gaps.
Boost Your Private Pension
State Pension won’t cut it alone. Aim for 25x your income in savings.
- Auto-enrolment guarantees contributions. Check your pot via your provider.
- Self-Invested Personal Pensions offer tax relief and stock picks.
- £20,000 annual allowance for tax-free growth.
Use Pension Wise for free guidance. Compound interest works magic – start today.
Government Support Options
DWP offers Pension Credit for low earners. Over-66s get free bus passes and TV licences.
Winter Fuel Payments continue, but verify eligibility as SPA rises.
Vote in consultations. The review seeks public input till late 2025.
Later Retirement Realities
Pros: More income, purposeful years. Cons: Burnout, family strain.
Many thrive post-67. Part-time gigs, volunteering fill days.
Adapt. Side hustles like Airbnb or tutoring bridge gaps.
Conclusion
The end of retiring at 67 marks a new era for UK pensions. With SPA heading to 68 and beyond, proactive planning is key. Check your forecast, boost savings, and stay healthy. While challenging, longer working lives can mean richer retirements. The government listens – make your voice heard in the review. Your future self will thank you.